He may be slight of frame, but going head-to-head with hardened, senior footballing bodies has never worried Bailey Dale.

As a 16 year-old, Dale was part of a Peninsula Football League senior premiership with local side Edithvale-Aspendale. 

In his early competitive forays as an AFL-listed footballer, Dale has also seemed well at ease in the big leagues.

Dale kicked five goals in Footscray’s 45-point win over Geelong last week and was named amongst his side’s best.

“Obviously it’s only a practice match but it’s good to get a few goals and a few touches.

“It comes down to team performance at the end of the day and we had a good win, a good last quarter and the team played really well.”

Recruited for his goal nous and disposal efficiency, Dale has continued to develop with a solid first pre-season under his belt.

The 18-year-old said playing alongside teammates close in age would hopefully help fast-track that development.

“Obviously there’s a lot of people my age here and a couple of years older and we’re all on the same path.

“We’ve got a lot of work to do but there’s a very positive future ahead.”

Dale has been working closely with the Club’s development coaches, including Footscray VFL coach Ashley Hansen, who praised Dale’s

VFL coach Ashley Hansen said Dale continued to build on his pre-season efforts.

“Bailey has enjoyed a consistent summer which has allowed him to build a foundation for the season ahead.

“Bailey’s game last week was really encouraging in regards to his work rate in the forward half to position himself in dangerous spots, to win the ball and finish off his work for the team.

“He also spent time on the wing and enjoyed the space to break lines with his speed and long kicking ability.”

Dale was recruited to the Bulldogs with pick 45 in the 2014 NAB AFL National Draft from the Dandenong Stingrays.